Chris Ellsworth is a well-known trainer operating out of Rawking Horse Ranch in Briones. Chris spent most of his formative years working as a cattleman in Wyoming, Montana and South Dakota. Throughout that 30 year history, Chris worked with scores of fabulous horse trainers who taught him many things, but in the end, Chris…
Lion’s Sergeant Pepper
Joins the Xenophon Herd!
Through a grant generously donated by the Lions club we introduce Lion’s Sergeant Pepper as the newest member of the Xenophon herd. Pepper is a 10-year-old bay Appaloosa Gelding. Coming from a reigning/roping background, therapeutic riding is all new to Pepper. That said during our initial testing we were pleasantly surprised by his near non-reaction to the…
Xenophon’s Horses Contribute to Major “Growth”
While the contribution that Xenophon’s program horses make to the well-being of the participants in our programs is widely known, it is not so widely known that they are contributing to the “growth” of our community in another unique way….manure! Most of you have seen the large bins on the edge of our parking lot…
Xenophon’s Big Presence at the PATH Region 11 Conference
PATH International is the governing body for equine-assisted therapy in the United States. It provides credentialing, sets safety standards, and ensures the professionalism and growth of our industry. In addition, they provide educational opportunities so that certified instructors can meet required continuing education requirements. One of the ways they do this is through regional and…
Don’t Miss Xenophon’s Annual Horse Show and Open House!
Xenophon’s Annual Horse Show and Open House is the culmination of our students’ hard work and determination throughout the lesson season. Our amazing riders and staff have prepared a spectacular day of equestrian demonstrations to showcase the importance and impact of our services. Food, Fun, and entertainment are guaranteed. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience…
Off to the Ball Park for Xenophon’s Annual A’s Game Outing
It was a Battle of the Bay, and what a battle it was! The score went back and forth, with the lead changing by innings. It turned into a nail-biter as the score was tied up in the bottom of the 8th inning, sending the game to extra innings! Fifty-five A’s and Giants’ fans from…
Xenophon Hosts Professionals for an Introduction to Alzheimer’s/Dementia Program
Last August, Xenophon piloted a program designed to address the stress and strain that accompanies a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or dementia. In partner with Connected Horse, another non-profit that developed the curriculum based on research studies at both Stanford University and UC Davis, the program uses therapy horses to provide centered experiences to reduce stress,…
Off to the Races…Xenophon Runs Booth for Dollar Days
It was a beautiful day at Golden Gate Fields. The perfect day on which to end their spring racing season. With Justify’s win of the Triple Crown the day before, many folks were in the mood for horse racing. That or the $1.00 beer, mimosas and hot dogs brought them in. Several times during the…
Connected Horse Facilitator Training Takes Place at Xenophon
Last August, Xenophon piloted a new program called Connected Horse at Xenophon. The program is designed to help individuals with living with dementia or Alzheimer’s and their care partners, by reducing stress levels, improving sleep and increasing communication, all of which have been proven to slow progression of this disease. Connected Horse, is a non-profit…
Xenophon Hosts “Compassionate Critters” Learning Event
On a beautiful sunny Saturday morning on April 15, 2018, Twenty-eight families, with children aged anywhere from 2 -12, arrived at Xenophon to learn about “compassionate critters” and how animals help humans. The event was planned in conjunction with Mindful Littles, a non-profit in Moraga, whose mission is to inspire parents and children to be…